Newcastle currently sit in 14th position in the Premier League table, after a return of 14 points from their opening 13 outings, with inconsistency undermining their ability to push on further up the table, and things won't get any easier for the Toon.

They face four away games in their next six Premier League fixtures, including trips to Chelsea and Arsenal, so their two home matches against Leicester City and Everton will be of paramount importance to their hopes of moving away from the drop zone.

"If my target for the first half of the season is 20 points and we have 14, we have to be sure we use these next six games to get those points."

Next up on the horizon for Rafa's men is a trip to the Hawthorns to take on West Bromwich Albion tomorrow night, and the Spaniard will need to lift his players immediately, if they are to leave the Black Country with anything to show for their efforts.

Antony Martin

A passionate football writer with an obsession for the beautiful game. Still has not seen either his club or country win a trophy during his time on earth. Aside from football, he is also a keen follower of golf, tennis and darts.